

Movie spotlight
Wood and Water
As she enters retirement, a mother leaves behind her solitary life in rural Germany and travels to protest-ridden Hong Kong to visit her son.
Insights
Plot Summary
The film follows the journey of a middle-aged American man who travels to Southern Italy to reconnect with his estranged daughter. Upon arrival, he finds himself adrift in a foreign culture, grappling with his past and his relationship with his daughter. He becomes entangled in the local community, seeking meaning and solace amidst the rugged landscape and the warmth of its people.
Critical Reception
Wood and Water received a mixed to positive reception from critics. It was praised for its atmospheric portrayal of Southern Italy and its sensitive exploration of themes like family, belonging, and the search for connection. Some reviews noted its deliberate pacing and introspective nature, which might not appeal to all viewers, while others lauded its authenticity and emotional depth.
What Reviewers Say
Praised for its evocative cinematography and sense of place.
Noted for its understated yet poignant exploration of father-daughter relationships.
Some found the pacing too slow, but appreciated the film's emotional honesty.
Google audience: Audience reviews generally highlight the film's beautiful scenery and the compelling emotional core of the story. Viewers appreciated the authentic feel of the Italian setting and the relatable struggles of the protagonist. Some found it to be a quiet and reflective film, while others wished for a more dramatic narrative arc.
Fun Fact
Director Jonas Carpignano is known for his trilogy of films set in the Calabria region of Italy, including 'A Ciambra' and 'A Vida Invisível', with 'Wood and Water' serving as a thematic link rather than a direct continuation.
AI-generated overview · Verify ratings on official sources